In an ever increasingly distracting world, it is easy to get off course. The constant chatter on TV, social media, radio, and a host of other venues, beckons us into the world of chaos.
Once distracted, we ramble on down a pathway we should never have embarked on and we get in trouble. Too often, once there, we begin to justify our stay, and our trouble only worsens.
Our minds become cluttered with endless information, most of which serves no purpose other than to pull us away from what truly matters. We scroll endlessly, consuming content that often leaves us feeling empty and disconnected from our spiritual roots. The noise of the world drowns out the still, small voice that seeks to guide us.
These distractions aren’t merely inconveniences—they’re strategic diversions that lead us astray from our divine purpose. With each notification, each breaking news alert, each viral video, we’re presented with a choice: to remain connected to what matters eternally or to surrender to the temporary allure of worldly engagement.
God’s Invitation
Now confused and struggling, we wonder what to do; then God suggests an amazing solution . . .
One of my favorite passages in the Bible . . .
“Come now, let us reason together,”says the LORD.“Though your sins are like scarlet,they shall be as white as snow;though they are red as crimson,they shall be like wool. If you are willing and obedient,you will eat the best from the land;but if you resist and rebel,you will be devoured by the sword.”For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.
This invitation from the God of the universe stands in stark contrast to the chaotic calls of our culture.
While the world shouts for our attention through countless distractions, God simply invites us to sit down and reason together.
There’s no manipulation, no flashy gimmicks—just a straightforward invitation to conversation and reconciliation.
What strikes me most about this passage is the tenderness behind it. The Almighty God, who holds all power and authority, doesn’t demand or coerce.
These words reveal a God who values relationship over ritual, connection over compliance.
A Divine Conversation
I just love this Scripture; God says; “Come now, let us reason together.”
It is as if God has just poured a cup of coffee for you, and invites you to the table, One on one, to see if there can be a solution. God is awesome!
Imagine this scene: The morning light filters through your kitchen window. Steam rises from your coffee cup. And there, across from you, sits the Creator of the universe, ready to listen, to speak, to reason together.
No rushing, no agenda beyond restoring the relationship. Just you and God, having coffee together.
In these sacred moments, transformation begins. The burdens you’ve been carrying—the guilt, the shame, the regret—can be placed on the table between you.
The distractions that have led you astray can be acknowledged and released. This is where healing starts: not in a megachurch, not in a religious ritual, but in intimate conversation with a God who cares enough to meet you where you are.
These divine coffee moments don’t require theological training or perfect understanding. They simply require your presence and honesty.
God already knows your struggles, your doubts, your sins. He’s inviting you to acknowledge them together, so healing can begin.
The Condition of Forgiveness
Even though you have rebelled, God wants to forgive you, but there is a condition, you must be willing and obedient. You have to be both.
It’s not enough to be willing, and it’s not enough to be obedient, you must be willingly obedient.
This willing obedience isn’t God’s way of controlling us—it’s His path to liberating us. When we willingly choose obedience, we align ourselves with the design specifications of our Creator.
The beautiful paradox of this relationship is that true freedom is found in submission. By willingly surrendering to God’s wisdom, we’re freed from the tyranny of our own limited perspective and the destructive patterns that entangle us when we chart our own course.
Daily Renewal
Each morning presents a fresh opportunity for this sacred conversation. Before checking emails, before scrolling through social media, before allowing the world’s chaos to infiltrate your mind, consider sitting down for coffee with God.
Open His Word, quiet your heart, and listen for His invitation to reason together.
This daily practice isn’t about religious obligation—it’s about relationship cultivation. It’s about creating space for a conversation with God that transforms your perspective, realigns your priorities, and renews your spirit for the day ahead.
In these quiet moments of connection, the distractions of the world fade into proper perspective.
What seemed so urgent on social media suddenly appears trivial compared to eternal matters. The opinions that once consumed your thoughts lose their power when placed alongside God’s truth.
Promise of Restoration
The promise in Isaiah is clear: willing obedience leads to blessing—“you will eat the best from the land.”
This isn’t prosperity gospel; it’s simply the natural outcome of fellowship with our Creator. When we follow God’s design for our lives, we experience the richness of life as it was meant to be lived.
The alternative is equally clear: resistance and rebellion lead to destruction. Not because God is vindictive, but because stepping outside His protective boundaries naturally exposes us to harm.
Settle this one before you start the day!
Each morning, before the distractions begin their relentless pursuit, make your choice.
Will you surrender to the chaos of endless distraction, or will you accept the invitation for coffee with God? The conversation awaits. The forgiveness is available. The path to peace is clear.
Choose willing obedience today, and experience the restoration that comes from reasoning together with the One who created you, knows you, and loves you completely.
You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms
God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!
As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!
This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.
Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!
Surrounded by idyllic portrayals of winter wonderlands and an overweight, jolly bearded man, with a magical sleigh, pulled by reindeer; we are flooded with countless enticements to overspend, as we try and fulfill the gift-giving requirements of this imaginary friend.
So caught up in the “𝗝𝗼𝗹𝗹𝘆” madness of the season; many well-meaning parents foist upon their unsuspecting children, the idea that this mythical character is actually real!
To be sure; there is 𝗢𝗡𝗟𝗬 𝗢𝗡𝗘 who actually knows when you’ve been sleeping, and knows when you are awake; who truly knows if you have been bad or good, and it is 𝗡𝗢𝗧 the chubby guy in the red suit!
Is it any wonder that children have a hard time believing in Jesus, later in life, after having been spoofed, regarding the fat man in the red suit, and his com-padre, the Easter Bunny.
Now, don’t get me wrong; we all have traditions regarding many things; they are not all inherently wrong or evil. There are a host of traditions that we get caught up in; holidays, sports games, hunting and fishing seasons, hobbies, and a host of other things.
When it comes to Christmas, take a moment and tell your kids about the real reason for the celebration; it is 𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗝𝗲𝘀𝘂𝘀.
Do your best to tell them that 𝗝𝗲𝘀𝘂𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝗻𝗼 𝗺𝘆𝘁𝗵, and if you are courageous enough, let them in on the whole Santa and Easter Bunny thing; in the end, you 𝗔𝗡𝗗 them, will be glad!
Have you ever watched a skilled craftsman at work? There’s something beautiful about seeing someone who knows their trade inside and out.
They handle their tools with confidence and precision, creating something extraordinary from raw materials.
Understanding God’s Approval
When it comes to studying God’s Word, you’re called to approach it with the same level of dedication and excellence.
This isn’t about impressing others or earning God’s love – it’s about handling His truth with the care it deserves.
What Does It Mean to Be Approved?
Think of it like this: When a product gets a seal of approval, it means it’s been tested and found trustworthy.
As you study God’s Word, and learn to apply the truths you discover, you’re developing into someone who can be trusted with His truth.
Handling Truth with Care
Key Elements of Good Bible Study:
Take time to understand the context
Look at the whole message, not just isolated verses
Apply what you learn to your daily life
Stay humble and teachable
Check your understanding against trusted resources
Moving from Knowledge to Living Truth
Knowledge alone isn’t the goal.
God’s Word should change how you live. When you understand a truth from Scripture, ask yourself:
How does this change my perspective?
What action should I take?
How can I share this with others?
Practical Steps Forward
Start with one book of the Bible. Rather than jumping around, spend time really getting to know that book.
What’s the main message?
Who wrote it?
Why was it written?
Let these questions guide your study.
Making It Personal
Set aside regular time for Bible study. Even 15 minutes a day, approached with purpose and prayer, can lead to significant growth in your understanding of God’s Word.
Prayer for Wisdom
“Lord, help me handle Your Word with care and reverence. Give me wisdom to understand and apply Your truth correctly. Make me someone who can share Your message with confidence and humility. Amen.”
Remember, this journey isn’t about perfection – it’s about progress. Each time you open God’s Word with a sincere heart to learn and grow, you’re taking steps toward being that approved worker who handles truth well.
What’s one step you can take today to improve how you study God’s Word?
You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms
God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!
As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!
This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.
Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!
Have you ever thought about the word “jealous” when it comes to God? It might seem strange at first.
After all, we usually think of jealousy as something negative – that uncomfortable feeling when someone has something we want.
But God’s jealousy is completely different.
A Different Kind of Jealousy
Think about a parent watching their child run toward a busy street. The parent’s protective response isn’t controlling – it’s love in action.
God’s jealousy works like that. He’s not insecure or needy; He’s protective and passionate about your well-being.
Why It Matters Today
In your world, there are countless things competing for your attention.
Your phone buzzes with notifications. Your calendar fills with commitments. Advertisements promise fulfillment through purchases.
But God says, “I want your whole heart” – not because He’s demanding, but because He knows what’s best for you.
The Heart of the Matter
Consider these truths about God’s jealous love:
He wants your best, not just your leftovers
His love is active, not passive
He sees when other things steal your heart
His jealousy protects you from harmful substitutes
Making It Real
Imagine you created something incredibly beautiful – perhaps a piece of art or music.
How would you feel if someone tried to give credit for your work to someone else? God created you, knows you, and loves you.
His jealousy means He won’t stand by while anything else claims the place in your heart that belongs to Him.
Practical Ways to Respond
Take a moment to think about what captures most of your attention and affection.
Your career?
Social media?
Relationships?
None of these things are necessarily bad, but they can easily become substitute gods if we’re not careful.
Your Daily Choice
Start your morning by acknowledging God’s rightful place in your life. Before checking your phone or reading the news, spend a few moments focusing on His love for you.
Let His jealous love remind you that you’re incredibly precious to Him.
Something to Think About
You might be wondering if you’ve disappointed God by placing other things before Him. Remember – His jealous love isn’t about condemnation. It’s about restoration and protection. He wants you back, not to scold you, but to shower you with true love.
Closing Prayer
Lord, thank you for loving me enough to be jealous for my heart. Help me recognize anything that’s taking Your rightful place in my life. Draw me back to You, knowing that Your jealous love protects and provides what I truly need. Amen.
Reflection Questions
What areas of your life might God be jealous for today?
You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms
God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!
As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!
This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.
Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!
Maybe your grandmother’s wedding ring or your grandfather’s pocket watch?
These precious items connect you to your family history. Now, imagine something even more valuable – a spiritual inheritance that connects you directly to Abraham, one of the greatest figures of faith.
Understanding Your Inheritance
This verse reveals something remarkable about your spiritual story.
When you place your faith in God, you’re not starting from scratch. You’re joining a legacy that goes back thousands of years to Abraham.
Think of it as being added to the most extraordinary family tree ever created.
What This Means Today
Let’s bring this down to where you live. Maybe you’re reading this over breakfast, wondering if your faith makes any difference in your daily life.
Here’s the amazing truth – the same blessing that made Abraham special is available to you right now.
Breaking Down the Blessing
What does it mean to be “blessed along with Abraham”? Think about it like this:
You share in God’s promises to Abraham
Your faith connects you to a spiritual family
God sees your trust just as He saw Abraham’s
Your everyday faith matters deeply to God
Real Life Application
Remember when you learned to ride a bike? Someone probably told you, “Just trust me, keep pedaling, and believe you can do it.”
That’s a tiny glimpse of what faith looks like. Abraham believed God’s promises even when they seemed impossible, and you can do the same today.
Your Part in the Story
You might think, “But Abraham was special – I’m just ordinary.”
Here’s the beautiful truth: Abraham was an ordinary person who simply chose to believe God.
That’s all it takes. Your faith, no matter how small, connects you to this extraordinary blessing.
Making It Personal
Start looking at your challenges through the lens of Abraham’s story. When he faced impossible situations, he chose faith. You can do the same.
Whether it’s a work problem, family issue, or personal struggle, your faith connects you to God’s blessing.
Practical Steps
Take five minutes today to write down one situation where you need to trust God.
Remember, Abraham faced plenty of uncertain moments too. Your faith in these moments connects you to his blessing.
Prayer
Father, thank you for including me in the blessing of Abraham. Help me to walk in faith today, knowing that my trust in You connects me to a remarkable spiritual heritage. Give me Abraham’s courage to believe Your promises. Amen.
Reflection Question
How does knowing you share in Abraham’s blessing change the way you look at your current circumstances?
You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms
God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!
As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!
This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.
Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!
